Summary

North Las Vegas agreed to pay $1.2 million to settle a lawsuit after police officers used an 11-year-old child as an interpreter during a 2021 traffic stop. The plaintiff alleged the practice violated the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Key Facts

• North Las Vegas will pay $1.2 million to settle the lawsuit
• Officers used 11-year-old children as interpreters during a 2021 traffic stop
• The plaintiff alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Context

The North Las Vegas city council finalized a settlement with Andrea Hollingsworth, who sued after a 2021 incident in which police officers handcuffed her and asked her children to serve as interpreters. Hollingsworth alleged the city violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to provide appropriate accommodation.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about law enforcement agencies' obligations to provide qualified interpreters for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, rather than relying on family members or bystanders. Federal law requires public entities to ensure effective communication with people who have disabilities.

Sources

• Hoodline